On the feast of the Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian, His Grace Bishop Nektarije of London and Great Britain-Ireland celebrated the Holy Liturgy at the Church of Saint Sava in London, concelebrating with Protopresbyter-Stavrofor Vasyl Babych (of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church). Serving at the altar during the service were Subdeacons Nenad Kačarević and Mr Rastko Đukić.
Following the dismissal, His Grace the Bishop addressed the assembled faithful with an edifying homily on the Holy Unmercenaries and the inexhaustible love of God, which was manifested through these wondrous vessels of the Holy Spirit in the healing of the sick and the consolation of the suffering. He reminded them that Saints Cosmas and Damian received the gift of healing from God and selflessly served their neighbours with it, seeking no reward.
Pointing to their example, the Bishop called upon the faithful to bear witness to their gratitude to God for all the blessings received through active love towards their neighbours. Everything we possess is a gift from God, and we respond to His goodness with mercy, forgiveness, and a readiness to help, expecting nothing in return. Even when faced with harshness and misunderstanding, we are called to persevere in the love of God, guarding peace in our hearts and saving our souls through patience.
